110 year-old organisation sees red

By Samantha Elley

A number of landmarks around the Northern Rivers will be turning red this month.

And it is for a very special occasion.

The Australian Red Cross turns 110 years old this year and since its inception on August 13, 1914, it has provided support and relief to the population.

Last year alone $95 million was distributed via The Red Cross following donations and philanthropic gifts.

Local landmarks such as the Murwillumbah Bridge and Crawford House Museum at Alstonville will be lit up red in the evenings to mark the occasion.

“It will be happening all over Australia, too,” said Alstonville branch secretary, Carol Laskey.

“The Big Banana at Coffs Harbour will light up red on August 13.”

The local Alstonville Red Cross branch through its history

Ms Laskey said that both the Alstonville and Wardell branches have been meeting continuously over the past 110 years with Alstonville branch conducting Zoom meetings during the pandemic.

“Apart from funds sent to Head Office, the branch has supported numerous local and overseas projects,” she said.

“The branch has provided money for water in drought ridden Menindee and Walgett, a Breakfast Club at Bonalbo School, also the Syrian and Tsunami appeals, to name but a few.

“During recent floods and bush fires the branch was able to provide financial support to many local organisations and citizens.”

After the 2022 floods, $5000 was donated towards the re-establishment of the devastated Lismore Red Cross Tea Rooms, as another example.

Over the years, mental health programmes such as Save-a-Mate and Let’s Talk Program have also been supported.

The Red Cross has raised money through street stalls, sausage sizzles, craft shows, raffles, a High Tea, Bingo and a Ballina Players charity night.

“The local population has been very generous and supportive of all branch efforts,” said Ms Laskey.

The local Alstonville Red Cross branch through its history

To celebrate the 110th Anniversary, The Alstonville Plateau Historical Society at Crawford House Museum, will feature a display of Red Cross memorabilia and has started from July until September this year.

Three local Red Cross members, now deceased, are to be featured in the exhibition.

Firstly, Elsie Johnson, a highly decorated member who served the Red Cross for decades.

Her legacy continues with funding from her will, which has helped many communities and appeals in the local area. 

Mrs Lumley, long time President of the Wardell branch, will also be featured in the exhibition.

Thanks to monies left in the will of long-time local member Freda Noble, a defibrillator was established in Alstonville Plaza.  A further defibrillator was also installed at the High School with funds raised by the Alstonville branch.

On Sunday 18 August the Alstonville Branch invites you to a complimentary Devonshire Tea and Sandwich event to be held between 11.00 am and 3.00 pm at Crawford House Museum, Alstonville. Jenny Dowell, ex-Mayor of Lismore and long-term Red Cross member will be the Speaker on that day. Further information available from Carol on 0424742774. We will be delighted to see you there. 

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